News & Updates from Federation

Security Isn’t a Reaction—It’s a Relationship

Tuesday, December 16

Russell "Rusty" H. Rosenthal Executive Director, Community Security (FBI ret.)

After the attack in Australia, JShield and Federation sprang into action—not out of fear, but because years of preparation, training, and trusted relationships make all the difference when security truly counts.

What 45 Seconds Taught These NoVA Leaders About Belonging

Tuesday, December 16

Melanie Schaeffer, Associate Director, Northern Virginia Community Outreach

At the launch of Federation’s Northern Virginia Leadership Cohort, 17 leaders opened with powerful one-minute stories of belonging. Through shared vulnerability and trust, they’re building the future of Jewish life in NoVA—together.

What This Moment Means and How We’re Responding

Monday, December 15

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

In response to the tragic attack in Australia, we reaffirm our commitment to Jewish safety in Greater Washington through JShield, stand with the global Jewish community, and call for vigilance against antisemitism everywhere.

Purpose, Community, and Jewish Social Justice Work

Monday, December 15

Avodah CEO Cheryl Cook shares how service, Jewish values, and community shape emerging leaders through hands-on work in DC. From fighting antisemitism to building lifelong purpose, Avodah’s impact reflects a powerful Federation partnership grounded in dignity and justice.

Lighting the Way, Together

Friday, December 12

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

This Chanukah, Federation invites you to embrace Jewish pride, light, and purpose—safely and visibly. As we face uncertainty, we double down on illuminating our identity, building community, and preparing for a pivotal year ahead.

Making Jewish Camp Magic, Thanks to One Happy Camper Grants

Tuesday, December 9

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

From sunrise tefillah to lifelong friendships, Jewish summer camp is transformative—and financial support like One Happy Camper makes it possible for families across Greater Washington to give their children this powerful experience.

Your Dollars at Work: Shaping the Next Generation of Jewish Leaders

Tuesday, December 9

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

On their first Shabbat in DC, 13 Avodah Corps Members gathered in Rock Creek Park to begin a transformative year of immersive service, rooted in Jewish values, justice, and bold leadership.

Listening With Open Curiosity

Tuesday, December 9

Lois Kimmel, Director of Convening, Leadership and Learning

The Jewish Federation’s Community Leadership Council is launching a bold Listening Campaign to strengthen trust and understanding across Greater Washington’s Jewish community through intentional conversations, curiosity, and the skill of real listening.

The Heroes of Greater Washington

Friday, December 5

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

In a year of crisis and uncertainty, local heroes across Greater Washington rose to the challenge, providing vital services through Federation’s network of partners. Their impact shows that empathy and resolve are powerful tools in helping our Jewish community meet adversity with strength and care.

Joy, Belonging, and a Table Full of Apples

Monday, December 1

Since August, more than 120 families across the DMV have hosted PJ Library Get Togethers—sharing challah, crafts, and community, and making Jewish life joyful, personal, and deeply connected.

Where Our Story Began

Monday, December 1

Recently unearthed 1940s UJA minutes reveal a powerful legacy of Jewish communal leadership—reminding us, as year-end matches launch, that stepping up is who we’ve always been.

Showing Up to Shape the Future

Monday, December 1

Shira Pomerantz, Assistant Director, Donor Engagement

NEXUS is where young Jewish adults in their 20s and 30s explore identity, belonging, and collective impact—building confidence, connection, and community leadership in Jewish Greater Washington.

Listening Across Difference at Pozez JCC

Tuesday, November 25

Chen Sara, Community Shlicha

In a time of political tension and fear, over 30 community members gathered at the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia for a powerful evening of dialogue led by a community shaliach and the Arava Institute—focusing on connection, not consensus.

From Simple Invitations to Multi-City Leadership: An Architect of Jewish Belonging 

Monday, November 24

When Olivia Hazlett moved to DC in 2020, her approach to building Jewish community was simple: invite people in. Now leading Moishe Houses across the Mid-Atlantic, she’s proving that authentic connection, consistency, and warmth are key to engaging young adults in Jewish life.

A Big Step Forward for Sarah and for Our Community

Monday, November 24

Sarah Klein, our Senior Director of FRD, has been named to Cohort III of JFNA’s Executive Accelerator—highlighting her exceptional leadership and the promise it holds for our entire Federation community.

At the Threshold of Possibility

Friday, November 21

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Gratitude and hope guide us as we close out the year. Federation reflects on the strength of our community and the energized movement toward deeper Jewish connection, urging all who are inspired to support the work ahead and help shape a meaningful Jewish future.

Connecting the Dots in Jewish Northern Virginia

Tuesday, November 18

Amy Lummer is building Jewish community across Northern Virginia—one connection at a time—through partnerships, family engagement, and a heartfelt commitment to belonging.

Your Dollars at Work: Building Home Through Education in Israel

Tuesday, November 18

A new school in the Galilee—the first in 47 years—is part of Homeward/Habaita, a bold initiative strengthening Israeli communities through education. See how your support is helping 36,000+ students thrive in the face of crisis.